When solving a Rubik’s cube, it’s the small, deliberate moves that lead to success. Just like in fleet management, the smallest adjustments and features can have the biggest impact. At Great Dane, we’ve designed our trailers with this same mindset, focusing on the details that enhance efficiency, safety, and overall savings. Every element works together, just like the pieces of a Rubik’s cube, to create a stronger, more reliable fleet.
In this article, you’ll learn about:
- Enhanced visibility: Advanced lighting for safer, more efficient operations
- Thermal efficiency: Protecting temperature-sensitive cargo while reducing costs
- Slip-resistant technology: Keeping drivers safe on the job
- FleetPulse telematics: Smarter, real-time fleet management
- Durable floors: Avoiding costly repairs with composite materials
Explore how these small features can make a big impact on your fleet’s performance. Read the full article to learn more.
Lighting the Way: Small Lights, Big Safety
Imagine a driver starting a shift before dawn. Without proper lighting, pre-trip inspections, loading or inspecting cargo could be dangerous. That’s why our trailers are equipped with work lights along the sides. “This lighting design helps drivers see in the early mornings or late at night when many deliveries are taking place,” said Jennifer Frady, Great Dane Engineer and Product Marketing Manager. “Inside, we’ve also added LED strip lighting that’s 74% brighter than traditional dome lights, making finding the right products safer and easier.”
Thermal Efficiency: Keeping Cargo Cool and Costs Down
Temperature-sensitive cargo requires dependable protection, and our Everest Strata System is built to deliver just that. It maintains optimal temperatures, prevents microbial growth, and protects against environmental elements and corrosion while mitigating sidewall damage from forklifts.
The Strata System combines PunctureGuard interior lining infused with Microban, eco-friendly ClimaCore insulation, and Ultra Road Shield. For even more efficiency, the Strata+ system for ThermoGuard lining, which locks in insulating gases and prevents water weight gain. Together, these features ensure cargo safety while reducing energy consumption and costs.
Durable Floors: No Wood in Our Reefer Floor
There are still reefer manufacturers that use wood for their floor sills, which makes them susceptible to moisture intrusion and can lead to floor corrosion. The Great Dane Everest floor is built with composite sills that won’t deteriorate and secured with coated screws on an alternating pattern that ensures no path for moisture.
Additionally, all our conduit is routed next to the side rail, rather than others that notch their floor to run it down the center. This extends the life of our trailer floors and helps save you from costly repairs down the road.
SLIPNOT: A Step Toward Safer Trailers
Slips and falls are a real risk when stepping in and out of trailers. That’s why we added SLIPNOT, a more permanent slip-resistant technology that improves traction and reduces accidents. “We installed SLIPNOT to help keep drivers safe as they enter and exit the trailers while reducing maintenance of anti-slip tapes,” says Frady. It’s a simple solution that greatly improves safety by helping to prevent accidents caused by slick surfaces. Read more about our exclusive agreement with SLIPNOT and how together we enhance safety.
Smarter Fleet Management with FleetPulse
Our trailers come standard with asset tracking from FleetPulse, using a device no larger than a hockey puck. Many new telematics offerings, including cargo cameras and reefer integrations, are also available for upgrade, making fleet management easier with FleetPulse.
Guarding Against Fifth-Wheel Damage
Fifth-wheel connections can wear down trailers, but not with Great Dane’s rolled-lip design. Surprisingly, this small detail is not always standard on competitive offerings but is essential in protecting the front wall from damage, extending the life of your trailer and giving you more value for your investment.
Robotic Technology for Consistent Quality
A strong connection between the truck and trailer is vital to safety on the road. Our Central Fab facility is equipped with fully automated robotics to produce precision-made upper couplers that are durable and strong. Our additional undercoating process protects against corrosion and debris, so your trailers stay in top condition no matter the miles.
Comprehensive Service
We know that reliable service is just as important as a well-built trailer. We back up our products with comprehensive warranties and a broad network of service centers, ensuring you have the support you need where and when you need it.
We understand that small details matter. Each feature built into our trailers is designed to improve your fleet’s performance, increase safety, and save you money. Let us show you how these thoughtful innovations can make a big impact on your fleet. Contact us today to learn more.
